<p>Danbury CT - SCORE Western Connecticut, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering vibrant small business communities, is calling on professionals, retirees, and business leaders to join its team of volunteer mentors. By volunteering, you can play a pivotal role in helping entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve their goals and strengthen the local economy.</p><p><strong>Why Volunteer with SCORE?</strong></p><p>SCORE mentors provide free, confidential business mentoring and educational workshops to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. These services have proven invaluable in helping local businesses thrive. Research shows that businesses with SCORE mentors have a 70% higher survival rate after five years, compared to those without mentorship.</p><p><strong>Who Can Volunteer?</strong></p><p>SCORE is looking for professionals with expertise in areas such as marketing, finance, operations, human resources, or industry-specific knowledge. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, retiree, corporate executive, or experienced business owner, you can make a difference by sharing your knowledge and experience. Passion for giving back and strong communication skills are essential.</p><p><strong>Benefits of Volunteering:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Personal Fulfillment</strong>: Help local businesses thrive and make a lasting impact.</li><li><strong>Professional Development</strong>: Enhance your mentoring, coaching, and leadership skills.</li><li><strong>Community Connection</strong>: Strengthen ties to your community and join a network of like-minded professionals.</li></ul><p><strong>How to Get Involved:</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Apply Online</strong>: Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.score.org/page/volunteer-score%20" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">https://www.score.org/page/volunteer-score</a>&nbsp;to submit your application.</li><li><strong>Start Mentoring</strong>: Begin making a difference in the lives of entrepreneurs and small business owners.</li></ol><p><strong>About SCORE Western Connecticut</strong></p><p>SCORE Western Connecticut is part of a nationwide network of 10,000+ volunteer mentors. The chapter is dedicated to helping local businesses succeed through free mentoring and educational programs. By empowering small businesses, SCORE contributes to building a stronger, more resilient economy.</p><p><strong>Join us in empowering the next generation of business leaders. Volunteer with SCORE Western Connecticut today!</strong></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p>First Selectman Capeci is seeking residents to volunteer&nbsp;to fill&nbsp;vacancies&nbsp;on the following boards:</p><ul><li>There are (2) openings on the Cultural Arts Commission, one available to any registered voter, the other available to any party except Democrat.&nbsp;</li><li>There are two&nbsp;openings on the Pension Committee, available to any registered voter.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>There is one opening&nbsp;on the Sustainable Energy Commission, available to any registered voter.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>There are two alternate&nbsp;vacancies&nbsp;on the Commission on Aging, one available to any registered voter and one available to a Republican or unaffiliated voter.&nbsp;</li><li>Board of Ethics has an alternate seat available to&nbsp;a Democrat or unaffiliated voter.</li></ul><p>Interested parties&nbsp;can send a letter of interest and a resume to&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 204);">susan.marcinek@newtown-ct.gov</span></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p>Ridgefield, Conn. (Dec 20, 2024) – A.C.T. (A Contemporary Theatre) of Connecticut is excited to announce the cast for their upcoming production of <strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong>. Directed by A.C.T. of CT’s Grammy nominated Artistic Directed Daniel C. Levine, the show promises to be a unique and visually stunning production of this beloved classic.</p><p><strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong>&nbsp;is a timeless musical that tells the heartwarming and poignant story of Tevye, a poor milkman in the village of Anatevka, who struggles to uphold his family’s Jewish traditions in the face of changing times. Featuring iconic songs like&nbsp;"If I Were a Rich Man,"&nbsp;"Sunrise, Sunset,"&nbsp;and&nbsp;"Matchmaker, Matchmaker,"&nbsp;this beloved classic explores themes of love, family, and resilience. With its rich characters and universal message,&nbsp;<strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong> is an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, tears, and the enduring power of tradition.</p><p>A.C.T. of CT’s Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine says, “Judaism has played a large role in my identity, and directing&nbsp;<strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong><em> </em>feels like an extension of my own story. From my great-grandfather’s journey escaping persecution in Russia to the traditions I cherished growing up, the themes of resilience, family, and cultural pride resonate profoundly with me. While the show is undeniably a Jewish story, it is not a unique one—these struggles against persecution and the fight to preserve culture and identity are tragically still happening today. Our production is a timely one, reminding us of the need for empathy, understanding, and action in the face of ongoing atrocities.”</p><p>The production will star Danny Rothman as Tevye, Jennifer Babiak as Golde, Ariella Serur as Tzeitel, Daniel Kushner as Motel, Ruthy Froch as Hodel, Jed Feder as Perchik, Skye Gillespie as Chava, Tyler Donovan McCall as Fyedka, Lori Ada Jaroslow as Yente, James Zannelli as Lazar Wolf, Peyton Crim as Constable, and Howard Penhasik as Rabbi; and will feature Ashton Lambert, Zoe Mezoff, Sarah Milnamow, Ben Milan-Polisar, Val Moranto, Daniel Pahl, Emily Qualmann, Robert Rice, Leeanna Rubin, Luke Sabracos, Sammy Schechter, Cadence Siriani, Katie Snyder, Ryan Williams, Marek Zurowski.</p><p><strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF</strong> is based on Sholem Aleichem stories by special permission of Arnold Perl and has a book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. The A.C.T. of CT production of will be directed by Daniel C. Levine, with music supervision/direction by A.C.T. of CT’s Grammy-nominated Bryan Perri. The shows choreographer will be Josh Assor, with scenic design by David Goldstein, costume design by Leslie Bernstein, lighting design by Charlie Morrison, sound design by Jeff Sherwood, projection/video design by Camilla Tassi, wig/hair/makeup design by Carissa Thorlakson, and casting by The Casting Collaborative.</p><p><strong>FIDDLER ON THE ROOF </strong>is rated PG and will run from Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, March 9, 2025. Performances are: Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm, Sundays at 2pm.</p><p>To purchase tickets for all performances please visit <a href="https://www.actofct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actofct.org/</a> or call the box office at (475) 215-5497. Senior / Student and Group pricing is available. For more information about A.C.T. of CT, season subscriptions, education programs, sponsor/donor opportunities, A.C.T. of CT’s First ACT! program, and other theatre-related news and announcements, visit <a href="https://www.actofct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.actofct.org/</a></p>

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<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Residents of the Greater Danbury area—including Brookfield, Danbury, Ridgefield, Bethel, Newtown, New Milford, New Fairfield, and Southbury—turned to Connecticut’s first&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Expedia Cruises&nbsp;</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">travel agency to plan their 2024 travel adventures! From relaxing in the tropics to exploring Europe’s timeless charm, locals embraced these top destinations and experiences:</span></p><ol><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Seven-Night Caribbean Cruises</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Soak in the sun while visiting four breathtaking tropical destinations.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Alaska Journeys:</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;Seven-night cruises, either roundtrip or one-way, with optional 3-7 night land tours to explore Denali—a must-see for nature lovers.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">European Escapes: Italy and France are top picks</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">, whether through all-land tours or extended cruises of seven or more nights. Italian favorites include Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Florence, Venice, and Sicily. For France, travelers often request trips to Paris and Seine river cruises that include a visit to Normandy.</span></li></ol><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A Holiday Highlight: Christmas Market River Cruises (booking for 2026 is underway!)</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">"European Christmas Market River Cruises are a favorite,” says Jim Expedia Cruises in Brookfield, Franchisee. “These magical experiences take you to charming old-world villages during the holiday season, fully immersing you in Christmas themes. Availability for November and December 2025 is already limited, and bookings for 2026 are underway."Make 2025 Your Year of Adventure!Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, scenic mountain views, or cultural landmarks, Mary and Jim are ready to help you create unforgettable travel experiences.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit Expedia Cruises in Brookfield</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">67 Federal Road and online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Call for Your Free Consultation:&nbsp;</strong><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">(203) 429-5589</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Start planning your next getaway with Connecticut’s trusted travel experts at Expedia Cruises. Adventure is just a call or visit away!</span></p>

<p><strong>Housatonic Habitat Charity Comedy Show Featuring Adam Ferrara </strong></p><p><em>An Evening of Laughter for a Great Cause</em></p><p>Get ready for a night of comedy and compassion as <strong>Housatonic Habitat for Humanity</strong> hosts a <strong>Charity Comedy Show</strong> featuring the hilarious <strong>Adam Ferrara</strong> on <strong>Thursday, January 16, at 7:30 PM</strong> at the <strong>Ridgefield Playhouse</strong>.</p><p>Presented by <strong>HamletHub</strong>, this special event combines entertainment with purpose—every dollar raised will benefit Housatonic Habitat for Humanity's mission to build affordable housing, offer free home repairs to seniors and veterans, and provide financial literacy programs to families within the local community.</p><p>Housatonic Habitat for Humanity is an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, operating entirely through local support. This means your contribution directly impacts hardworking families and individuals right here at home.</p><p>About Adam Ferrara</p><p>Known for his infectious humor and quick wit, <strong>Adam Ferrara</strong> is an internationally acclaimed stand-up comedian and actor. With a comedy career that includes <em>Comedy Central Specials</em> and being named “Hilarious” by <em>Entertainment Weekly</em>, Ferrara is guaranteed to have you in stitches.</p><p>Audiences may recognize Ferrara from his standout performances as Chief Needles Nelson in FX’s <em>Rescue Me</em>, Frank Verelli in Showtime's <em>Nurse Jackie</em>, or alongside Kevin James in <em>Paul Blart: Mall Cop</em>. He’s also been seen in <em>Law &amp; Order</em>, <em>The King of Queens</em>, and films like <em>Definitely, Maybe</em>.</p><p><strong>VIP Meet &amp; Greet</strong> options are available for those who’d like to meet Adam Ferrara after the show.</p><p>Your ticket not only promises an evening of non-stop laughs but also supports vital programs that help transform lives and strengthen the community.</p><p><strong>Don’t miss out on this meaningful night of entertainment. Purchase your tickets here:</strong></p><p><a href="https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/event/habitat-for-humanity-fundraiser/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Learn more and purchase tickets</a>.</p><p>Come laugh with us and help Housatonic Habitat for Humanity make a lasting impact—one joke at a time!</p>